Tarte Tatin

Tarte Tatin is a classic French dessert, specifically a type of tart that is traditionally made with apples caramelized in butter and sugar before being baked with a top crust. The dish is named after the Tatin sisters who are credited with its creation.

History

The Tarte Tatin was first created in the late 19th century by the Tatin sisters, Stéphanie and Caroline, who ran the Hotel Tatin in Lamotte-Beuvron, a small rural town in the Loir-et-Cher department of the Centre-Val de Loire region in central France. The tart became the signature dish of the hotel and eventually gained wider recognition.

Preparation

The traditional Tarte Tatin is made with apples, but it can also be made with other fruits such as pears or quince. The fruit is caramelized in butter and sugar before the tart is baked. The tart is then inverted before serving, hence its nickname "upside-down tart".

Variations

While the classic Tarte Tatin is made with apples, many variations exist. Some chefs use other fruits like pears, peaches, or even savory ingredients like tomatoes or onions. The method of caramelization can also vary, with some recipes calling for the fruit to be caramelized in the oven rather than on the stovetop.

In popular culture

The Tarte Tatin has been featured in numerous cookbooks and television shows, and is a staple in many French restaurants around the world. It has also been the subject of several culinary competitions, including the annual "Fête de la Tarte Tatin" in Lamotte-Beuvron.

See also

• List of French desserts
• List of pies, tarts and flans
• French cuisine